How To Test Out A Bingo Site Before Depositing

Updated August 6, 2018 at 10:16:59 AM

By Bret Allen

Bingo sites are popping up like nobody’s business! Except it’s your business, as a player, to check out new sites and make sure that your money is going to the best sites with the best games, reliable support, interesting offers and of course a solid reputation.

For those reasons, even as a new site appears each week, it’s really worth checking out new sites – definitely before making a deposit!

A nice welcome bonus may entice you to throw some cash at a shiny new site, but you should always do a little scouting around first. After all, you’re giving these people your time, attention, personal details and of course, money. There are a few things to look out for, so test out bingo sites before you deposit.

Can I try a bingo site before depositing?

Sometimes, yes. Some sites make provisions for players to test things out a little, especially those with a slots speciality, while others are a little hard to read until you become a member. These are a few things you can try to test a site out before depositing.

Read reviews

Look at reviews! Yes, this isn’t quite the same as trying a site out, but it does allow you to get the opinion of people who have already tested the site. You can search the web for the site name and you’re sure to find user reviews, or look at our bingo review section here to read our impartial reviews.

This is a good way to get a rundown of what games and rooms are available, what the support is like and what pros and cons may be waiting for you.

Make an account

Another way is to make an account, but not deposit. This will give you full access to the site, you just can’t buy any tickets.

What this does allow you to do is join in chat rooms (though some rooms will be unavailable if you haven’t deposited) and get a feel for the site, ask questions, look at how games run and so on.

Many sites even let you play some free bingo as a newbie. Note also that some sites let you win cash in chat games, such as Jackpotjoy.

Demo mode

The slots on bingo and slot sites can typically be played in demo mode too, allowing you to play for points instead of money.

This gives you some idea of whether you like the game and how it feels, plus what the features look like. It’s also a very good way to kill a little time if you don’t have any credit left!

Sister sites

You may also find out more about a site by looking at sister sites. For example, many Dragonfish software sites are very similar once you enter, so if you’re already a member at another site with the same owner or software, you have a very clear image of what the new site will be like.

However (and fortunately) this is not always completely accurate, as individual sites will sometimes put their own spin on things.

Play for free

Finally, look at no deposit bonuses. These are the perfect way to try out a site without risking any of your own cash!

A no deposit bonus is a kind of welcome bonus, but instead of matching your deposit like they usually do, you instead get a lump sum of cash (usually around £5) and are just let loose to use that.

You may also get free spins, or have tickets pre-assigned to a certain game. This kind of bonus is perfect for letting you actually play games, see how they run, and get stuck in as if you have actual credit.

Note, however, that winnings may be subject to wagering requirements. There are several such sites listed on our ‘no deposit bingo sites’ page.

What to look for when trying out a bingo site.

When you figure out how you’re going to test out a site- through reviews, free credit or just by taking a nosey around like a detective- there are a few things you should look out for. Take the opportunity to look at these aspects of the site, so you don’t get a surprise later on.

A license

The first thing to look for at any site is whether or not it has a license! This is more important than bonuses and games, because it tells you that the site can be trusted, because an official government body regulates and audits the site.

Licensed bingo sites have to adhere to a strict set of laws that uphold responsible gaming and player safety. This includes giving you options to limit your deposits or cool off if you have any problems with overspending.

For UK players, the UKGC is the licensing body and you will see their information in the footer of any site featured in our reviews.

Choice of games

Next up, look at the games because that’s why you’ll be coming back in future. Does the site have a good slot selection? Are there some you haven’t played before, plus a few favourites?

Make sure you will have access to the games you like. When it comes to bingo, ensure there’s a variety of rooms and a range of price points, so when you’re low on cash in future, you know there’s penny bingo for example.

Offers

Promotions are well worth examining. There’s bound to be a welcome bonus, but how much do you get? What are the terms and conditions of the bonus? You may be put off a site entirely (or hooked right away) by a high or low wagering requirement.

Check out the unique offers for an idea of what fun events may pop up as you stay on the site longer, including any loyalty rewards.

Support

Last but not least, have a look what support options are available. If you’re a night owl, it’s worth knowing that some sites close their support at 11pm or so, while others are 24/7.

Some have detailed FAQs, while others make it a challenge just to get in touch with someone. These things are worth knowing before you invest your cash!

No deposit bonus

The best way to try out a site without depositing remains the no deposit bonus, letting you play actual games without needing to spend a penny of your own- plus you have the chance that you’ll land a win!

Check out OnlineBingo.co.uk’s no deposit bingo sites for all the details of the best no deposit sites. Try before you buy!